Libyan Prime Minister Osama Hammad warmly received President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau upon his arrival in Benghazi. In honor of President Embaló and his accompanying delegation, Hammad hosted an official dinner attended by members of the Libyan House of Representatives, government ministers, military and civilian leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps from both countries.
During the dinner, cordial conversations unfolded that reflected the strong African bonds and mutual commitment to further strengthen these ties between Libya and Guinea-Bissau.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
